It is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of animals – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than a light film. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
If these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation could have been more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
